Rugby commits to addressing concussion issues

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Moody is just one player worried about how being concussed in his career may impact on his future healthSTEFAN WERMUTH/REUTERS

Alex Lowe

Last updated at 5:14PM, January 13 2014

The English rugby authorities have strengthened the concussion protocols for
next season and committed to backing a long-term study into the prevalence
of neuro-degenerative disease among retired players.

All professional players and coaches will have to participate in a compulsory
education programme before the start of the new season and the use of video
evidence to assist doctors with their pitch-side diagnosis will be mandatory.

The measures were agreed by the Professional Game Board over the weekend and
mark a significant step forward in rugby’s approach to concussion and its
potential long-term effects.